KARACHI: Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has said that the new wheat procurement policy aims at protecting the interests of farmers.

In a statement issued here on Saturday, he said the decision to procure one million metric tons of wheat had been taken to ensure food security and keep flour prices under control.

He said for the first time, wheat will be procured only from registered Hari Card holders in order to eliminate the role of middlemen. This initiative will ensure that the maximum benefit reaches genuine farmers, with approximately 330,000 farmers expected to benefit directly.

He further stated that the government will not provide bardana (gunny bags) this year. Farmers will bring their own bags, and Rs 60 per bag will be paid directly into their bank accounts through Sindh Bank.

He said the new procedure will not only make the procurement process easier but will also be more transparent, effective and safe from any possible fraud.

He said Sindh produces approximately 4.3 million tonnes of wheat annually and the current policy is designed to directly provide financial assistance to small farmers.

Published in Dawn, March 29th, 2026